Overview

• Keir Starmer is preparing for a formal visit to Washington to meet with US President Donald Trump, though an official date has not yet been confirmed.
• The two leaders discussed the visit during an impromptu phone call placed by Trump while Starmer met with Trump’s UK envoy, Mark Burnett, in London.
• The UK government is engaging with the US on potential trade tariffs, particularly on steel, as it seeks to avoid economic strain and foster closer ties.
• Starmer faces a balancing act in maintaining strong relations with the US while pursuing deeper cooperation with the European Union post-Brexit.
• The visit comes as both nations address critical issues, including NATO commitments, the war in Ukraine, and potential shifts in defense and trade policies.